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Complex Specimen Processor Jobs in Rochester, NY

... of specimen, as well as a description of any abnormalities or unusual findings. Performs the ... process and clinical history. Consults with attending pathologist/fellow on complex or unusual ...

... specimen, as well as a description of any abnormalities or unusual findings. * Performs the ... process and clinical history. * Consults with attending pathologist/fellow on complex or unusual ...

Lab Clin Supt Tech III

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20.31 - $27.42/hr

Exercises complex skill and judgment, and knowledge of the principles and methods of a technical ... specimen handling and processing. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Manages and maintains department schedules ...

Complex Specimen Processor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do complex specimen processor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for complex specimen processor in Rochester, NY is $17.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Complex Specimen Processor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Complex Specimen Processor, you need strong attention to detail, basic laboratory knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring experience in a clinical or laboratory setting. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen tracking software, and standard lab equipment is essential. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure specimen integrity, accurate processing, and timely workflow, which are critical for reliable laboratory results and patient care.

What are Complex Specimen Processors?

Complex Specimen Processors are laboratory professionals responsible for receiving, handling, and preparing biological samples—such as blood, tissue, or urine—for analysis and testing. They ensure that specimens are properly labeled, sorted, and processed according to strict protocols, often working with more challenging or specialized samples that require extra attention to detail. Their work is crucial for accurate diagnostic results and supports the efficiency and safety of the laboratory environment.

What is the difference between Complex Specimen Processor vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectComplex Specimen ProcessorMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, processing specimensLaboratory, performing tests and analyzing samples
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing and processing complex specimens, ensuring sample integrityPerforming tests, analyzing results, maintaining lab equipment

While both roles work in laboratory environments, Complex Specimen Processors focus on preparing and processing complex specimens, often requiring specialized training. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform a broader range of testing and analysis, with formal education and certification. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in medical labs.

What are some common challenges faced by Complex Specimen Processors, and how can they be addressed?

Complex Specimen Processors often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, ensuring precise labeling, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures. To address these challenges, it is essential to stay organized, double-check specimen identification, and follow standardized protocols meticulously. Working closely with laboratory technicians and communicating effectively with team members can help prevent errors and ensure timely processing. Additionally, staying up-to-date with laboratory information systems and safety procedures can further streamline workflow and support accuracy.
What are popular job titles related to Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Rochester, NY? For Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Complex Specimen Processor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Complex Specimen Processor jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Complex Specimen Processor job openings:
Pathologist Asst

$48.85 - $73.28/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Time as Reported / Per Diem

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

As Scheduled

Department:

500236 Surgical Pathology SMH

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URCD 218 H

Compensation Range:

$48.85 - $73.28

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

GENERAL PURPOSE

Assists pathologists and pathology residents in the gross examination of surgical specimens and autopsies. Also provides grossing coverage at affiliates on a rotational basis, as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Dictates a gross description, including the color, consistency, weight, and measurements of specimen, as well as a description of any abnormalities or unusual findings. Performs the necessary dissection of the specimens received while maintaining positive patient identification. Dissection involves the proper cutting of specimens and appropriate submission of tissue for microscopic examination with regard to disease process and clinical history. Consults with attending pathologist/fellow on complex or unusual specimens.

  • Performs special techniques, including but not limited to, frozen sectioning for immediate assessment, touch preps, cytogenetics tissue prep, flow cytometry, gene rearrangement, electron microscopy, decalcification, specimen radiology and STAT freezing.

  • Provides coverage to the Postmortem Medicine Unit of Strong Memorial Hospital in the performance of autopsies.

  • Completes research requests and clinical trials according to protocol, without compromising the diagnosis and evaluation of the specimen.

  • Trains pathology residents and histologists, as needed, in grossing and special techniques in the preparation of surgical pathology specimens.

Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Master's degree in pathologists' assistant program required

  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

  • PATH ASST - Pathology Assistant - Certified upon hire required or

  • Limited Permit per regulatory requirements upon hire required

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

Notice: If you are a Current Employee, please log into myURHR to search for and apply to jobs using the Jobs Hub. Your application, if submitted using this portal, cannot be moved forward.

Learn. Discover. Heal. Create.

Located in western New York, Rochester is our namesake and our home. One of the world's leading research universities, Rochester has a long tradition of breaking boundaries-always pushing and questioning, learning and unlearning. We transform ideas into enterprises that create value and make the world ever better.

If you're looking for a career in higher education or health care, the University of Rochester may offer the perfect opportunity for your background and goals.

At the University of Rochester, we are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture and are united by a strong commitment to be ever better-Meliora. It is an ideal that informs our shared mission to ensure all members of our community feel safe, respected, included, and valued.


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